How to Spread Ashes: What You Need to Know

When a loved one passes, families often look for meaningful ways to honor their memory. One of the most symbolic and heartfelt choices is a scattering at sea. At Ashes 2 Oceans, we’re honored to provide both attended and unattended memorial services off the California coast, helping families create a serene farewell surrounded by the beauty of the ocean.

Whether you're new to the idea or just exploring your options, here’s what you need to know about how spreading ashes works—and an important detail: you don’t need to send us all of the ashes. Just a small portion is enough.

What Does "Spreading Ashes" Mean?

Spreading ashes (also called a scattering) is the act of releasing cremated remains into nature. It’s a symbolic gesture of letting go and returning to the earth—or in our case, the sea.

People choose this type of farewell for many reasons:

• A love of the ocean

• A desire for simplicity

• Environmental values

• To fulfill a loved one’s last wish

At Ashes 2 Oceans, we offer memorial services in the waters surrounding the Channel Islands, California—a truly peaceful and protected part of the Pacific Ocean.

How Much Ash Is Needed?

We get this question often, and the answer surprises many people:

👉 You only need to send us a small portion of the ashes.Typically, 1 to 2 cups is more than enough for a beautiful sea scattering.

Many families choose to:

• Keep a portion of the ashes in a keepsake urn or jewelry

• Divide the ashes among multiple family members

• Hold a separate ceremony elsewhere

Whether you're planning an unattended scattering (where we handle the release and send you a certificate and photos), or joining us in person for an attended sea memorial, rest assured we can honor your loved one beautifully with just a portion of their remains.

How Do You Send Ashes?

For unattended memorials, we’ll provide clear instructions for securely mailing a small amount of ashes to us. We handle every step with the utmost care, dignity, and respect.

For attended services, you’ll bring the ashes with you and join our licensed captain and crew on the ocean for a private, guided ceremony.

What If You’re Not in California?

That’s okay! Many of our clients live outside California—or even out of state. Because only a small portion of ashes is needed, it’s simple to send them to us, no matter where you're located in the United States.

We serve families nationwide with our unattended scattering services and those closer to Southern California with attended memorials in the Channel Islands region.

A Gentle Goodbye

Spreading ashes at sea is more than a farewell—it’s a way to return someone you love to a place of peace and timeless beauty. Whether you're watching the waves from the boat or simply receiving photos of the moment, this ceremony offers healing, closure, and connection.

If you have questions, we’re here to help. We know this part of the journey isn’t easy, and we aim to make the process as clear and comforting as possible.

Ready to plan a sea scattering?Visit ashes2oceans.com or reach out for personalized support.